FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 2, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer: Ford to Invest $2 Billion to Create More than 3,200 New Manufacturing Jobs, Secure Critical EV Production in Michigan

“We are thrilled that Ford is advancing its long legacy in Michigan by investing $2 billion to create 3,200 good-paying UAW jobs,” said Governor Whitmer. “Today’s announcement marks another historic economic win for the state in recent months and will help our economy grow even stronger. I am proud that we came together to deliver economic development legislation that has helped us land huge projects, creating thousands of jobs. With this announcement, Michigan has added nearly 25,000 auto jobs since I took office and we continue to lead the future of mobility and electrification. Let’s continue in this spirit of collaboration to keep growing our economy, creating jobs, and advancing the future of mobility and electrification.”

Investments announced today will secure critical activities related to electric and internal combustion vehicle production. More than 65 percent of the new jobs supported through the Critical Industry Program will help drive new EV and other vehicle production-related activities across five plants in Southeast Michigan, including a new packaging facility in Monroe Charter Township. As the company continues to electrify its existing fleet, the remaining investment will help ensure those vehicles will also be built in Michigan by providing a strong base in Michigan for future decisions around converting vehicles and plants to electric.

Today’s announcement follows a historic $7 billion investment by General Motors to build its all-electric future in the state, converting its Orion Township assembly plant to produce full-size EV pickups and building Ultium’s third U.S. battery cell plant in Lansing and a $1.7 billion investment by LG Energy Solution to quintuple its battery production capacity in Holland. Collectively, these investments demonstrate Michigan’s continued growth in, and efforts to attract significant investments in the advanced manufacturing, EV and mobility sector to the state.

“Ford is committed to leading the electric vehicle revolution and strengthening our portfolio of iconic vehicles that customers love. That’s why we’re announcing historic investments in our home state of Michigan, creating thousands of high-quality union jobs to expand production of the all-new F-150 Lightning as well as the next generation global Mustang and Ranger for the U.S. market,” said Kumar Galhotra, president, Ford Blue. “Ford is proud to assemble more vehicles and employ more union auto workers in the U.S. than any other auto manufacturer, and with today’s announcement, we will have created or retained 10,000 jobs and invested more than $10 billion in Michigan since 2016.”

Ford’s decision to expand in Michigan will have a far-reaching impact on the entire state, with the influx of jobs resulting in spinoff investments and local redevelopment opportunities. More than $22.5 billion in new personal income is expected to be generated by the direct, indirect, and induced jobs that this opportunity will create over 16 years. This personal income will be utilized to not only support the many small businesses in the community that are still recovering from the COVID pandemic, but will spur demand to redevelop underutilized and blighted properties in the community and the state for commercial and residential purposes.

“Michigan, thanks in large part to Ford, has put the world on wheels for decades, and we intend to keep doing so for decades to come. Regardless of party, we’re all committed to doing whatever it takes to keep our title as the car capitol of the world,” said Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey (R-Clarklake).

“Michigan workers have the best skills, the most training and the strongest work ethic of anyone nationwide. They deserve the good-paying jobs and long-term commitment this project will provide,” said Speaker of the House Jason Wentworth (R-Farwell). I look forward to going through the details of this plan with the Appropriations Committee and finalizing the agreement soon.”

Since 2016, Ford has announced nearly $10 billion in investment in Michigan, largely around electric and autonomous vehicle manufacturing, supporting nearly 10,000 new and retained jobs for Michigan’s manufacturing workforce.

Today’s news builds on Ford’s February announcement that it was forming a new partnership to activate the Michigan Central Innovation District in an effort to attract and retain highly skilled talent and high-growth companies while supporting the development of neighboring neighborhoods.  This new district, anchored by the iconic Michigan Central Train Station, will serve as a globally recognized hub for talent, mobility innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, affordable housing, small business opportunities and community engagement.

“Ford’s decision underscores the continuing vitality of our state’s EV and mobility sector.  Through a bipartisan and pragmatic approach, Team Michigan demonstrated again its commitment to winning the future of mobility and EV manufacturing here in Michigan,” said MEDC CEO and Michigan Strategic Fund President and Chair Quentin Messer Jr. “Michigan is competing aggressively to win every EV and mobility investment. We appreciate and are grateful for Ford’s continued vote of confidence in Michigan and their partnership on this economic win that will positively impact Michiganders across our state for decades to come.”

Google has also joined Ford as a Founding Member of the Innovation District, where it will leverage the assets of the district to collaborate on new products and services that will define the future of mobility. As founding members, Google and Ford will also help mentor entrepreneurs and local businesses, as well as develop the workforce in Detroit.

“This announcement is a testament to UAW members who contribute their skill, experience, and knowledge to the success of Ford Motor Company,” said UAW President Ray Curry. “We are always advocating to employers and legislators that union jobs are worth the investment. Ford stepped up to the plate by adding these jobs and converting 3000 UAW members to permanent, full-time status with benefits.”

“The essential necessity of quality healthcare and full-time employment are longstanding principles that have been communicated to the Company by the UAW International Union and our UAW Local Unions since our inception,” said UAW Vice President and Director of UAW’s Ford Department Chuck Browning.  “I applaud the actions of Ford Motor Company to address these issues outside the realm of collective bargaining. These unprecedented steps taken by Bill Ford Jr. and CEO Jim Farley are both a refreshing and innovative approach to labor relations that delivers great benefit when most needed by our hard-working members.”

Quotes from legislators and local officials:

“Ford knows that the most talented and dedicated workers come from right here in Michigan. Today’s announcement is only possible when bold industry and government leaders share a commitment to the prosperity of our state and its people. The positive ripple effects of this major investment will be felt far and wide.”

Senate Minority Leader Jim Ananich (D-Flint)

“When we funded the strategic outreach and attraction reserve fund in the legislature,  this is just the type of transformational investments we were aiming to bring to Michigan. These thousands of new, good-paying, union jobs represent not just a great contribution to our state’s economy but also meaningful, secure employment for thousands of households in our state— the kind of economic stability Michigan families need to thrive.”

House Democratic Leader Donna Lasinski (D-Scio Township)

“We’re excited to hear the news that one of our anchors and largest employers in Wayne County is expanding its footprint and solidifying itself even deeper in our community. We’ve always known Wayne County is a great place for global companies to call home and we’re excited for what this means for our economy. This investment shows the state’s commitment to the largest county in the state and the well-being of its 1.75 million residents.”

Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans

“Macomb County has a long history of providing the tools and teams necessary for automotive innovation, so we welcome this announcement from Ford and appreciate their ongoing commitment to our community when it comes to both EV and internal combustion technology. “Macomb’s skilled and talented workforce can help them meet rising consumer demand for vehicles, including the All Electric F150 Lightning. And we stand ready to get the job done.”

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel

“On behalf of the County of Monroe, we are excited to have another Ford facility here in Monroe County. We appreciate this significant capital investment and the new jobs it will bring to the area and look forward to continuing this long-lasting relationship.”

Tim Lake, president and CEO of the Monroe County Business Development Corporation

Gov. Whitmer Announces Michigan Now a Top State for Small Business Revenue Growth

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer highlighted new small business data indicating Michigan’s continued economic growth. According to Opportunity Insight’s Track the Recovery, January 2022 saw small business revenue in Michigan increase by 24% compared to January 2020, while the nation experienced a 6.9% increase over the same period. According to the Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives, Michigan ranks tenth in small business revenue growth over the last two years.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and they continue to create jobs and get things done,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “The data continues to show that small businesses are at the forefront of driving innovation, jobs and economic growth in our state. I’m committed to getting small businesses the support they need to retain and recruit more workers and expand operations so we can keep this momentum going and see even better numbers in the future.”

This latest positive data closely follows the recent announcement that Michigan had the fastest small business job growth in 23 years and that 150,000 new small business applications were filed in 2021, 59% more than in 2019. Governor Whitmer also recently announced that the State has been approved for up to $236,990,950 in State Small Business Credit Initiative funding from the U.S. Department of Treasury.

Over 900,000 small businesses employ 1.9 million people. COVID-19 impacted small businesses nationally and here in Michigan. Governor Whitmer, through her MI New Economy plan is setting a bold goal for Michigan’s small businesses to build on this momentum and have Top 10 growth during the next five years.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

May 31, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Encourages Employers to Implement Strategies to Improve Mental Health in the Workplace

New report details strategies to improve employee wellbeing and reduce workplace stressors

LANSING, Mich. – To further efforts to support mental health and wellbeing for more Michiganders, Governor Gretchen Whitmer tasked the Michigan Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) with establishing a dedicated workgroup to focus on mental health, trauma, and resiliency in the workplace. The workgroup has released their findings and key strategies for employers to help build supportive workplaces by integrating employee mental health strategies that establish healthier workplaces, enhance employee wellbeing and promote resilient companies

This work builds on Governor Whitmer’s recently released mental health proposals that will help Michiganders get the comprehensive care they need, so that our state can attract and retain more mental health professionals, open more appointments and create good-paying jobs.

“Every person in Michigan should have access to the quality, affordable mental and physical care they need,” said Governor Whitmer. “By giving Michiganders the comprehensive care they deserve, and by making investments in mental health strategies in the workplace, we can build a stronger Michigan with a resilient workforce. The workgroup recommendations are another step closer to helping more Michiganders have access to mental health care.”

LEO worked closely with employers, workers and professionals to discuss how workplaces can implement supportive and empowering strategies, while also highlighting organizational opportunities for better workplace environments.

The report details the findings of the workgroup and key strategies for employers to help build supportive workplaces by integrating employee mental health strategies that establish healthier workplaces, enhance employee wellbeing and promote resilient companies.

“While we are incredibly proud of the work that has been done to come up with these proposals to improve mental health in the workplace, we realize there is still a lot of work to be done in order to develop and implement these and other workplace mental health strategies,” said LEO Deputy Director of Labor Sean Egan. “We hope employees and employers across the state will join us in reviewing the report findings and recommendations and build on mental health strategies that will have a great, positive impact on employee wellbeing in addition to protecting the employer’s bottom line and our communities.”

Investing in mental health and safety is critical to build strong workplaces, a strong workforce and strong communities. It is also imperative for employers to focus on mental health and safety for the overall wellbeing of their employees.

“Many of us have been in workplaces where the overall attention to employee mental health has been great in some places and poor in others, and we’ve seen the positive impact strong mental health can have on employee satisfaction, work productivity and the company as a whole,” said Debra A. Pinals, M.D., Medical Director for Behavioral Health and Forensic Programs, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and clinical professor of psychiatry at University of Michigan. “Our goal in this work with LEO is to help employers create a workplace where the mental health is strong and employees enjoy coming into work every day, which creates an environment that is beneficial to employees and employers alike.”

“Careers in the professional trades are vital to Michigan’s economic future and we are committed to ensuring those entering these high-demand fields are equipped with the physical and mental health support they need to succeed,” said DeShon Leek, Southeast Representative, Michigan Building Trades.

To learn more about the details of the report, the workgroup encourages employees and employers to join them for a virtual meeting on Wednesday, June 8 at 2:30 p.m. – join the virtual meeting here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE           

May 26, 2022

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Kicks Off $1.5 Million Tuition Giveaway to Celebrate 35th Anniversary of Michigan Education Trust
100 Michigan children to benefit from $15,000 in prepaid tuition 

LANSING, Mich. — In celebration of the Michigan Education Trust’s (MET) 35-year anniversary, Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced the launch of the MET 35th Anniversary $1.5 Million Giveaway, a random, statewide drawing that friends and family can enter on behalf of a child for a chance to win one of 100 $15,000 prepaid tuition prizes.

The governor was joined by former Governor Jim Blanchard, State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks, former state Sen. William Sederburg, Lansing School District Superintendent Ben Shuldiner, and teachers, students, parents and community leaders at Riddle Elementary School.

“This life-changing giveaway is an awesome way to celebrate 35 years of helping Michigan families save for higher education,” said Governor Whitmer. “It will help more students attain the education and skills they will need to achieve their career goals and bring us closer to meeting our goal of 60% of working-age adults with a skill certificate or college degree by 2030. I applaud Treasurer Eubanks and the MET Board for making this opportunity possible, and I especially want to thank Governor Blanchard for his leadership and long-term vision that have left a remarkable legacy. I would encourage any family thinking about saving for higher education to look into MET — as my parents did for me — and start today.”

Under MET’s giveaway, Michigan residents 18 years or older on Aug. 31, 2022, are eligible to enter on behalf of beneficiaries ages birth to 5 by the same date for a chance to win $15,000 in prepaid tuition. A person may enter only once, but multiple people may enter on behalf of the same child. The prepaid tuition prize may be used to pay for future tuition and mandatory fees at a community college, college, university or trade school in accordance with MET terms and conditions.

“A lot has changed over the past 35 years, but one thing still holds true today — a family’s desire to help put their children on the path to a bright and successful future,” said former Governor Blanchard, who proposed the MET plan in his State of the State address in 1986 and signed it into law later that year. “Back then, parents and grandparents didn’t have a lot of options to save for a child’s higher education. We created MET, and it has been a key that has helped unlock opportunities for tens of thousands of Michiganders to receive the education, training and skills that lead to better jobs, social mobility and economic security. I’m proud of the lasting impact MET has had on so many.”

The giveaway is not being funded by state tax dollars. A prudent investment strategy over the last decade has resulted in a record surplus for MET, which can now be used to invest in Michiganders. Earlier this year, the MET Board of Directors unanimously agreed to use a portion of the surplus to elevate awareness of MET and provide more Michigan children with access to higher education that will help them prepare to compete in a modern workforce and solve future challenges.

“The idea behind the giveaway is to help make 100 dreams come true by reaching more families and helping more children achieve success through higher education,” said Treasurer Eubanks, who also serves on the MET Board. “We are excited to shine a $1.5 million spotlight on MET and show parents, grandparents and others how it’s a safe, secure and flexible way to make sure their loved ones meet their future education and career goals.”

Giveaway entry begins today (May 26) and ends on Aug. 31, 2022. Winners will be announced in a series of drawings beginning Sept. 12. Michiganders can enter the giveaway and review rules and eligibility criteria at www.METgiveaway.com.

“As the only school district in Michigan that offers free pre-K to all students living within our boundaries regardless of family income, the Lansing School District is committed to enriching our young learners by building a strong foundation for lifelong curiosity and well-being,” said Lansing School District Superintendent Ben Shuldiner. “But that foundation is just one part of the equation. Pursuing higher education can be financially unattainable for many students. MET is a great resource to help families save for future higher education even if it’s just in small increments a little bit at a time. This giveaway can help provide a child with a $15,000 head start toward his or her future. I strongly urge families in Lansing and across the state to enter.”

About the Michigan Education Trust

Administered by the Michigan Department of Treasury, MET lets families pay today’s prices for future higher education costs. Signed into law in December 1986, it was the first prepaid tuition program in the nation.

More than 96% of high school graduates participating in MET have attended a college, university or technical school.

There are three types of MET plans: the full benefits plan, the limited benefits plan and the community college plan. Families can purchase one plan or mix and match options.

MET benefits can be used for postsecondary education at universities, colleges and technical schools. If a child chooses to attend a private Michigan school or out-of-state college or university, funds can be directed to that institution. MET benefits may also be transferred to other eligible family members and are refundable if the student chooses to attend trade school or does not attend college.

Parents, grandparents or other family and friends can make MET contributions on behalf of beneficiaries. MET has flexible and convenient payment options that allow purchasers to pay as they go, pay all at once or make monthly payments.

Contributions to MET plans are tax deductible on Michigan tax returns. Earnings are tax exempt if they are used for qualified higher education expenses.

More information about MET, including one-on-one consultation sessions with MET experts, is available at SETwithMET.com, 800-MET-4-KID or [email protected].

Gov. Whitmer Announces Global Drivetrain Testing Provider ATESTEO Establishing Headquarters in East Lansing, Creating 46 High-Wage Jobs

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) to announce that ATESTEO North America, a global provider of testing services for EV drivetrains and components, is establishing its North American headquarters in East Lansing with support from the Michigan Strategic Fund. This investment is expected to create up to 46 well-paying jobs and add $27.8 million to the state’s economy.

“Today’s investment by ATESTEO will build on Michigan’s advanced manufacturing strengths and create dozens of good-paying, high-skill jobs for Michiganders in mid-Michigan. It will empower us to continue growing our economy and securing a strong future for our working families,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “ATESTEO’s facility reinforces our reputation as a leader in the future of mobility and electrification and underscores the strength of our talented workforce. Since I took office, Michigan has added 21,600 auto jobs, many build electric vehicles and batteries. Thanks to our effective fiscal management, hardworking people, and innovative businesses, Michigan’s economy is growing with low unemployment, rising wages, and strong small businesses growth. Michigan’s future is bright, and investments like today’s by ATESTEO will help us continue moving our state forward.”

The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $27.8 million and create up to 46 well-paying jobs with the support of a $400,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund. Michigan was chosen for the project over competing sites in Ohio and South Carolina.

ATESTEO North America is a subsidiary of ATESTEO Group, a Germany-based testing services provider for automotive drivetrains. The company began serving the e-mobility industry in 2008 and provides testing services for hybrid and fully electrified auto drivetrains and components. ATESTEO North America was established in 2022 to better serve existing and future customers in the U.S.

ATESTEO plans to establish its North American headquarters in an existing building in East Lansing, where it will install test benches to test drivetrain systems and components. This facility will be the company’s first location in the U.S. With the assistance of LEAP, the company chose the East Lansing location because of its proximity to future automotive customers, the promising partnerships with Lansing Community College and Michigan State University, and the region’s storied automotive spirit.

“We are extremely excited to soon be part of East Lansing, Michigan! With drivetrain testing at an early point in time, we support automobile manufacturers and automotive suppliers to develop new, modern drive systems. We have consistently expanded our international operations in recent years to be on site wherever transmission development takes place. The strong automotive industry in the USA and the increased focus on electric and hybrid drive systems make it very sensible for us to have our own testing location in the United States. By establishing our North American headquarters, we are close to the automakers and automotive suppliers in Michigan and the United States,” said ATESTEO CEO Tim Willers. “They can test their drivetrains on our test benches right here in East Lansing. We thank the city of East Lansing for their openness and for the opportunity to locate our company in Lansing. We look forward to a bright future together in this beautiful innovative region with a long automotive tradition.”

The project will further boost Michigan‘s efforts to position itself as the global leader in the future of mobility and vehicle electrification. In addition, the project will bring immediate high-wage jobs, primarily engineering and technical positions, to the region and could lead to future investment in the state.

“Congratulations to the team at ATESTEO on your growth and success. We are excited to welcome you to Michigan, and appreciate this vote of confidence in our talented workforce and leadership position in electric vehicle manufacturing,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of MEDC and President and Chair of the MSF Board. “We are grateful to the Governor, legislators and local officials for their continued support of the Michigan Business Development Program. We’re pleased to work with local partners like LEAP and the city of East Lansing to bring these high-wage jobs to mid-Michigan, and we look forward to welcoming more companies like ATESTEO to Michigan.”

The city of East Lansing has offered to support the project with approval of a 50-percent Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption and a new Personal Property Tax Exemption.

“ATESTEO represents the type of company that is aligned with our strategic priorities for business attraction,” said East Lansing Mayor Ron Bacon. “We are impressed by their technological advancement and ability to connect with the right people at MSU to create local opportunities for students and others to join the innovation economy that is continuing to grow here in East Lansing.”

To further help attract ATESTEO to East Lansing, LEAP also facilitated support from key workforce development partners at Capital Area Michigan Works!, MSU and LCC to assist with hiring and training needs. Individuals interested in careers with ATESTEO should visit https://www.atesteo.com/en/career/.

“ATESTEO is a perfect match for the Lansing Region and Michigan given our globally leading electrification and mobility industry opportunities,” said Bob Trezise, president and CEO of LEAP. “Foreign direct investment is a crucial economic development win that supports industry innovation and growth. Thanks to the critical partnership of the MEDC, East Lansing and other partners who worked side-by-side to set the stage for ATESTEO’s US launch!”